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The 2020 NFL free agency wave brought on major roster changes and now it's full-on mock draft season. Key signings and trades have helped fill needs and clarify what we can expect in the draft. We have a ton of updates from our last mock now that we have some testing numbers to pair with film grades. And yes, the NFL draft is set to happen on schedule, though no players nor fans will be present due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic sweeping the globe.
This is a good exercise to see how different teams tend to value need against pure talent that's available. As easy as it is to say that player X "won't be available" at a certain point, these mocks show scenarios where surprising names fall to unexpected ranges. It's fun to simulate how five quarterbacks going in the top-15 will affect the rest of the draft, for example.
We'll do a few of these mocks throughout the off-season to update projections based on team fits and past tendencies. Make sure you tweet us your thoughts and projections to see how they matchup with our mock.
No. 1: Cincinnati Bengals - Joe Burrow, QB
The Bengals have an easy decision with the No. 1 overall pick as far as addressing the quarterback position. Not only is fresh blood needed as Andy Dalton was clearly not the savior for the franchise, but they have the rare opportunity to pick from two great quarterbacks. Joe Burrow should be their choice, especially after clarifying that he's good with the Bengals drafting him.
Burrow's blend of accuracy, playmaking and mobility make him one of the strongest prospects in recent memory. Zac Taylor will need to mitigate the number of intermediate throws outside the numbers in order to hide Burrow's average arm, but expect Burrow to continue addressing that area of his game. He already showed progress throughout his career at Ohio State and LSU, so it's possible he'll either continue to make do with his arm strength or see some improvement.
The rest of the Bengals will need some work to push the unit into a competitive territory but the bones are there. They need to extend A.J. Green and Joe Mixon, and hopefully John Ross can fix his drops, but their playmaker corps has terrific potential. The line has underperformed, and though Burrow's excellent at creating time, a better unit will keep him alive for longer.
No. 2: Washington Redskins - Chase Young, EDGE
The optimism around Tua Tagovailoa's health has led to much speculation that the Alabama star could supplant 2019 first-round pick Dwayne Haskins as the future of the Washington franchise but I'm not buying the talk. Haskins was a target of owner Dan Snyder, and showed growth as a young rookie despite a terrible situation around him. This pick should be in pen: Chase Young.
He'd join a talented defensive front that will need to get to quarterbacks quickly. The secondary has been rebuilt into a physical unit that'll support the run defense, but needs to prove itself in coverage. Young will assist their efforts as a pass-rusher.
Young's in the same stratosphere as Myles Garrett and Von Miller as a prospect. We've seen recent Buckeyes Joey and Nick Bosa be fantastic NFL stars quickly, but Young's more athletic than those two. His technique and strength aren't at their level, but he'll be an impact player in Year 1 just like the aforementioned group.
No. 3: Detroit Lions - Jeff Okudah, DB
As soon as the Detroit Lions signed right tackle Halapoulivaati Vaitai and traded All-Pro cornerback Darius Slay, their first-round plan became much clearer. Regardless of whether they trade down a few spots or stick at No. 3, there's no question the cleanest combination of talent fit and need is Ohio State cornerback Jeffrey Okudah. He'd immediately settle the cornerback room as Okudah, Desmond Trufant and Justin Coleman.
The Lions could easily justify going with Derrick Brown, Javon Kinlaw or even Tristan Wirfs to solidify those positional groups. But Okudah is an elite cornerback prospect, whereas the other options have some questions about their on-field performance and lesser value overall. I still question why the Lions would trade Slay for two mid-round picks instead of pairing him with Okudah, but egocentric coaches make decisions based less on talent and more on personality.
Detroit looks geared for a big bounce back season if the team's collective health cooperates with their potential. Matthew Stafford remains at the center of that discussion. Another notable injury could lead to the franchise looking for a new signal-caller in 2021.
No. 4: New York Giants - Isaiah Simmons, LB
Similar to the Lions, the Giants have several needs they could easily justify taking with the No. 4 overall pick. This is also a trade-down candidate, though I doubt general manager Dave Gettlemen would do so after a long-standing history of staying put. In this scenario, a top offensive tackle or defensive playmaker Isaiah Simmons can make a significant difference.
I think the offense can wait in this scenario, especially since the team was able to land a decent right tackle in Cameron Fleming. There's a lot of buzz that Simmons will be their pick since there's not a clear other option on the board and his potential impact is worth the value here.
Combining the versatile Simmons with the talented defensive line that Judge inherited is a great start to revamping the unit. Adding depth at cornerback, the offensive line and receiver will be subsequent needs.
No. 5: Miami Dolphins - Tua Tagovailoa, QB
Anyone other but a quarterback at No. 5 for the Miami Dolphins would be shocking. Moving up to No. 3 still seems in the cards, but if the current situation where teams can't perform medical checks proves damaging for Tua Tagovailoa, Miami could have pulled off the ultimate heist. Winning more games than expected, still landing their prized quarterback and keeping their picks to build around him would be tremendous.
Tagovailoa would rival Burrow as the top quarterback in the class if not for his worrisome injury history. His touch and timing on passes is excellent, and has excelled when asked to be more of a creator (2017-2018) and traditional point guard (2019). He's also known to be a tremendous leader and can continue the change of culture that's in motion.
The other option for Miami is Justin Herbert, but health and frame are the only two clear meaningful positives Herbert has over Tua. The bigger arm means little since Herbert is a slower processor, notably less accurate and struggles creating big plays. Rolling the dice on Tua is worth the potential risk.
No. 6: Los Angeles Chargers - Jedrick Wills Jr., OT
The Los Angeles Chargers moved on from a diminished Philip Rivers and look ready to start Tyrod Taylor. They should consider Cam Newton if they can look at his physical condition before going with the mediocre Taylor, but this offense is a right tackle away from being playoff-worthy. This defense is still young and talented.
Acquiring Bryan Bulaga and Trai Turner, plus keeping Hunter Henry means the offense is ready to produce a solid ground-control approach with big passing plays mixed in. Taylor will need to be more of the intermediate-deep passer he was early in his Buffalo stint instead of the dink-and-dunker. Protecting him with a ready-made starter is key.
The answer is Jedrick Wills Jr. He's the best blocker in the class and conveniently plays right tackle for a team needing a natural presence there. The Alabama stud would finish a needed overhaul of the unit.
No. 7: Carolina Panthers - Tristan Wirfs, OT
This is a tough spot to predict. The second cornerback in the draft could easily go here since the Panthers are slated to start Corn Elder, Luke Cole or Dominique Hatfield across from Donte Jackson, and that'd be a disaster. Adding a veteran like Bashaud Breeland, whom they signed last year before a foot injury voided the deal, would allow them to go with the best player available who also fills a massive need. If they address the No. 2 corner spot, then Tristan Wirfs is the pick.
Wirfs was a massive combine winner thanks to his elite athleticism. Like previous Iowa product Brandon Scherff, Wirfs is a downhill blocker who struggles in pass protection at tackle due to length limitations and a forward-leaning set. Moving him to guard would allow him to flourish and accentuate his strengths.
This offense is close to fulfilling their revamp. Joe Brady needs blockers for Teddy Bridgewater though, and both guard spots are weak. They have an otherwise solid receiving corps and obviously Christian McCaffrey is a superstar.
No. 8: Arizona Cardinals - Mekhi Becton, OT
Could the draft fall better for Arizona in terms of having options? It's not likely. They could draft an elite receiver like Jerry Jeudy, Henry Ruggs or CeeDee Lamb and set themselves up for the next several years at the position. Or go with a defensive line playmaker like Kinlaw or Brown. Even C.J. Henderson is justifiable as the cornerback position could use another young, solid piece.
But adding an offensive tackle that evaluators have told me is the "prototype" piece to build around is too exciting. I love Becton's upside and fit, even if it meant he or D.J. Humphries would move to the right side. Kliff Kingsbury hasn't prioritized the offensive line as much as other teams but having Kyler Murray and a great scheme plays into that.
Becton's journey to this point is remarkable and will win over coaches who have any skepticism about his outlook. His length, movement ability and power is second-to-none, and he'd be an anchor for a decade to come.
No. 9: Jacksonville Jaguars - Javon Kinlaw, DT
It'll be tough to recognize half of the Jacksonville Jaguars starting defense in 2020. Their decision to move on from Nick Foles already wasn't an unforeseen outcome of an always-doomed pairing, but leaves them in a spot to either draft Justin Herbert, Jordan Love or keep building the defense. I don't believe in either of those quarterbacks as a special talent, so they should take a potentially transformative defensive tackle.
Kinlaw's a massive presence at 6'5" and 324 pounds, with the skill set as a penetrating nose or 3-technique. It's hard to find a polished and on-field mature talent at the position, and the Jaguars can look at how disappointing Taven Bryan has been as an example of that. Kinlaw's not in the same mold as Bryan.
His dynamic first step and strong upper body will immediately boost what was a porous run unit in 2019 while also giving major upside as a pass-rusher. He's similar to DeForest Buckner.
No. 10: Cleveland Browns - Andrew Thomas, OT
A new year, another new regime in Cleveland. After an aggressive start to free agency, the Browns still need to fill their LT spot after signing Jack Conklin to play on the right side. It remains to be seen if the Browns can bounce back from last season's disaster, but it's clear that they're setting out to protect Baker Mayfield this upcoming season. Drafting Andrew Thomas from Georgia at No. 10 would further drive home that point.
Thomas is a plug-and-play prospect in this scheme. Already familiar with the zone concepts and partnership with Nick Chubb, the Browns would need to see improvements from whoever lines up at right guard and the opposite tackle. But filling one of the tackle spots with this pick would be a big win for the new regime.
No. 11: New York Jets - CeeDee Lamb, WR
The best offensive tackles are off the board and that should leave Adam Gase's eyes bugging out once again. This offense has thus far failed Sam Darnold in a massive way since Gase took over, though they'll have the chance to add a No. 1 receiver at No. 11. CeeDee Lamb was custom made for Gase's YAC-based offense.
Lamb is a terrific prospect with his size, speed, hands and route-running potential. He won in every fashion possible at Oklahoma and should prove to be a very good option quickly in the NFL. The Jets should've kept Robby Anderson to pair with Lamb, but Lamb, Breshad Perriman and a healthy Jamison Crowder is good enough if Darnold can stay upright.
The priority in later rounds will be tackle depth. The interior line is set and they wisely snatched up Pierre Desir at corner. But both George Fant and Chuma Edoga could be the worst starting tackles in the league, so that can't continue.
No. 12: Las Vegas Raiders - Justin Herbert, QB
The Las Vegas Raiders should be looking to address the quarterback position since Derek Carr is an empty-stats producer. I'm skeptical that Herbert will be significantly better, but he's a good fit into the West Coast system that Jon Gruden runs and a fresh start at the position with a blossoming set of playmakers would be a great situation for the Oregon quarterback. Herbert could be the next Carson Wentz, a physically gifted athlete who can create chunk plays despite inconsistent accuracy and situational decision-making.
The upside is worth a first-round flier on Herbert. The alternative would be Jordan Love, who looks the part until the ball is released and is often erratic. Some may argue Love's upside is greater but his 2019 revealed how far away he is from starting and the floor of Herbert is at least of a marginal starter, with a solid upside still.
The Raiders can opt to keep Carr in hopes of boosting his value or look for the immediate cap savings and ride Herbert in this scenario. If they want to continue churning the mediocre mill with Carr, adding one of the two Alabama receivers looks likely.
No. 13: San Francisco 49ers - Derrick Brown, DT
The 49ers boldly moved DeForest Buckner as looming cap issues necessitated a trade, and they land an absolute steal in this mock. Most have Auburn defensive tackle Derrick Brown as a top-eight lock, but quarterbacks being forced upward moves him down. General manager John Lynch would almost be obligated to take Brown if he fell this far.
Brown's a massive 6'6" presence that can get after the quarterback with a unique blend of power and speed. He was extremely disruptive in the SEC, and his traits project him to be an excellent interior rusher. He'd immediately fit into a deep rotation that could use a star as their anchor.
The other option is looking at receivers. With Jerry Jeudy and Henry Ruggs both available, the 49ers must think about whether they believe in any of their young receivers besides Deebo Samuel to pass them up. I don't, so if Brown is gone, one of them should hear their name called.
No. 14: Tampa Bay Buccaneers - K'Lavon Chaisson, EDGE
There's not a team that underwent a more drastic change with one move than the Tampa Bay Buccaneers did when Tom Brady signed on. Moving on from Jameis Winston for Brady is a massive rush on their process but most of the roster is ready to compete. Adding championship-caliber pieces capable of contributing in 2020 is paramount.
Drafting a tackle to protect Brady could be considered since Joe Haeg doesn't have the strongest resume, but most options were left tackles in college and will inevitably struggle through the transition from college to NFL, let alone switching sides. Trading for Trent Williams with Day 2 picks and moving Donovan Smith is a better option if they're willing to finance the future for Brady.
Taking K'Lavon Chaisson is the right move with how the board fell. The Buccaneers defense needs another pass-rusher with Carl Nassib gone, and adding a competent edge presence is never a bad idea. Chaisson would rotate onto the field quickly thanks to his quick burst off the line and solid run awareness.
No. 15: Denver Broncos - Henry Ruggs III, WR
Though it's surprising the Denver Broncos let offensive coordinator Rick Scangarello go, hiring Pat Shurmur should be a quality move for this unit. Drew Lock is a talented passer who will likely struggle more in 2020 than his few starts this past year as the league adjusts to him but there's a lot of talent on this roster to help him. This is an ascending team.
General manager John Elway must consider addressing the defensive backfield, but the chance to go with an elite deep threat is tempting. Alabama's Henry Ruggs III had a monstrous combine and is a benefactor from running under a 4.3 40. Some scouts believe he was the best receiver on Alabama's roster in 2019, which is notable considering how good Jerry Jeudy and Devonta Smith are.
A Courtland Sutton, Henry Ruggs and Noah Fant combination would be a fearsome trio for the AFC West to face twice a year. They'd stretch defenses vertically and have varying skill sets to keep defenses scrambling to match up.
No. 16: Atlanta Falcons - CJ Henderson, DB
The Atlanta Falcons should very clearly address their defense, and their need for a cornerback is as rich as anything. The pass rusher list here is weak but they can nab the second-best corner on the board in Florida's C.J. Henderson. The Cowboys in particular would be disappointed to see Henderson get so close but be snatched away.
Henderson is a lot like former Falcon Desmond Trufant, often more of a coverage corner than a playmaker. He's fast and long, projecting as a potential traveling boundary corner. He's not extremely quick or balanced in the slot or on quick routes but he's often in position to challenge at the catch point.
The Falcons get the chance to take their corner of choice in this mock and that's a nice luxury. They could drop back and recoup some picks if they're in love with another.
No. 17: Dallas Cowboys - Xavier McKinney, S
As expected, the Cowboys allowed Byron Jones to walk in free agency. They have several needs in the secondary, but re-signing Anthony Brown was of some significance that they may wait to address the position until Day 2.
That leaves Dallas with a massive need to bolster the safety spot. Replacing Jeff Heath's snaps is important, and there's enough corner depth in free agency and the draft to think they'd benefit from taking the top safety in the draft, Xavier McKinney. The Alabama product isn't quite as good as Minkah Fitzpatrick but he's from similar ilk and will be a solid player right away.
McKinney can play up high in Cover 1 and Cover 3 or split in two-high formations. He's a solid but unspectacular run defender, making him more attractive than Grant Delpit. Getting a good starter right here is proper value for a defense that needs that instant impact.
No. 18: Miami Dolphins - Jerry Jeudy, WR
Miami already dipped into the Alabama well once with Tua, and general manager Chris Grier would be excited if he could land his teammate at No. 18. Jerry Jeudy was unstoppable with his smooth route-running, sharp cuts, acceleration and body control. He's reminiscent of Marvin Harrison.
Miami has a promising young receiving group with DeVante Parker finally breaking out and Preston Williams having significant upside. Jeudy would give them an affordable and explosive group with a variety of skill sets. The value here would be too good to pass up.
This pick would otherwise be the best available blocker. We can come back to that with their next pick, since there's no way Jeudy would last until that selection.
No. 19: Las Vegas Raiders - Patrick Queen, LB
We already added Justin Herbert to the Las Vegas Raiders roster earlier, and now it's time for some speed to be injected into Jon Gruden's defense. The Raiders desperately need help at linebacker and they get lucky as LSU missile Patrick Queen is still on the board. He's another incredible riser thanks to his performance as LSU surged in 2019.
Queen's much like Atlanta's Deion Jones, able to drop into coverage like a safety, rush the passer like a decent edge presence, and stop the run well enough to be a legitimate middleman in spread-heavy attacks. Even if offenses change to more tight formations and trends change, Queen will have value as an overhang coverage option against slots and tight ends.
The Raiders defense needs more help than just Queen but the building blocks are coming together with Maxx Crosby, Trayvon Mullen, Mo Hurst and Clelin Ferrell being nice young pieces. Finding another corner, a safety and another linebacker have to be priorities for this unit but Queen would immediately help.
No. 20: Jacksonville Jaguars - A.J. Terrell, DB
The Jacksonville Jaguars have dumped a ton of assets into the trenches over the last several years but they'll need to go back into that well. Their secondary is the next problem to address after landing Javon Kinlaw earlier. A cornerback that fits their mold and scheme is Clemson's A.J. Terrell.
Terrell had an outstanding career until the LSU receiving corps made some ridiculous plays in the title game. There's no need to overvalue that game when his resume is so strong. He'd immediately start on a team lacking outside corners.
The Jags could also consider a receiver, edge defender or safety here. The need for cornerback is simply too big to pass up though, and their defense would be much more interesting in 2020 with Terrell and Kinlaw headlining their acquisitions.
No. 21: Philadelphia Eagles - Denzel Mims, WR
The Eagles wisely snatched up Darius Slay and finally took care of their most pressing roster need. Now they can focus on revamping a receiving corps that went from tantalizing to broken and confusing. Alshon Jeffrey looked broken and second-round pick J.J. Arcega-Whiteside was shockingly ineffective in 2019.
Injecting another explosive body in Denzel Mims would protect against another Jeffrey or Desean Jackson injury. In the best-case scenario, both Arcega-Whiteside and Greg Ward leap in their development and Mims proves to be an impactful presence early on. His physical stature and insane body control on the sidelines is promising that he can.
This is a big year for Doug Pederson and the Eagles offense. Several moves were made to shake up a bland offense in 2019, but even a Super Bowl winning coach can't survive pressure forever. Mims has that early impact talent to help curve disappointment.
No. 22: Minnesota Vikings - Justin Jefferson, WR
The Minnesota Vikings decided to make themselves a worse team by trading Stefon Diggs for this pick, but at least they were able to get a first-rounder for their star receiver unlike Houston did for DeAndre Hopkins. They're in the right range to add a very good receiver prospect. They simply need to identify what type of playmaker they prefer.
Combine winner Justin Jefferson gets the nod with a stock boost here. Jefferson dominated the combine like he did on the field with LSU as he racked up 1,540 yards and 18 touchdowns.
His combine performance had scouts and social media buzzing with excitement. His 4.43 40, 37.5-inch vertical and 126" broad jump confirmed his athleticism is a difference-making factor, and has high-end No. 2 receiver upside. Fitting him next to Adam Thielen would be excellent for both the Vikings offense and Jefferson's potential impact.
No. 23: New England Patriots - A.J. Epenesa, EDGE
Over time the New England Patriots' roster has become less impressive due to attrition and refocusing on value than starpower. It's worked as Tom Brady and this coaching staff have been able to overcome roster limitations. That changed this past year after both Antonio Brown and Josh Gordon flamed out, and losing Trey Flowers in free agency hurt their pass-rush.
There's not a fix-all at No. 23. Losing Brady hurts badly and they appear set to enter 2020 with Jarrett Stidham as their starter barring a veteran signing. Taking Jordan Love could be under consideration but if they flame out this season they could get a much better prospect.
The best value though is Iowa's A.J. Epenesa. His combine was subpar, but Bill Belichick would happily add someone who is used to reading run keys and finding success as a skill-based pass-rusher. He can play anywhere from a 3-4 end, 4-3 strong-side end, or nickel defensive tackle.
No. 24: New Orleans Saints - KJ Hamler, WR
We know that Drew Brees is back, so now the Saints must do whatever it takes to keep him productive. Addressing their linebacker position merits consideration but getting into the receiver run would be wise. Replacing Ted Ginn's pure speed is an option with K.J. Hamler.
The Saints have done well to find production from no-namers and veterans besides Thomas, but investing a significant pick for a Year 1 starter is wise for Brees' success. Hamler's going to prove more valuable and versatile in the NFL than in a limited Penn State situation. I think he'll be someone who can outperform expectations quickly.
He's lightning quick upfield and can take even a slant to the house. The trio of Thomas, Hamler and Emmanuel Sanders is easily the best this regime has had, and may prove to be a difference-making unit in the playoffs as they stretch defenses thin.
No. 25: Minnesota Vikings - Kristian Fulton, DB
The Vikings had one of the stronger rosters in the NFL last year, but they're tight on cap space and have to deal with losing several defenders to free agency. Another edge rusher would help but there's a massive long-term hole at corner as well. This draft worked out to fill the latter need.
LSU's Kristian Fulton is a solid pick this late in the first-round. The 6'0", 197-pounder fits the physical mold that Minnesota likes. He's not the stickiest in coverage but can play the ball and has the traits to recover. He's similar to Trae Waynes in nature.
The uncertainty with Mike Hughes' health and departure of their three top corners basically forces Minnesota to spend again at the position. Hitting on Fulton and getting lucky with Hughes' health would go a long way in re-solidifying a position that looked set just a few years ago before age and injuries struck.
No. 26: Miami Dolphins - Josh Jones, OT
I mentioned that the Dolphins need to build around Tua Tagovailoa under that pick, and they'd have hit a few home runs if they left the first-round with Jerry Jeudy and Josh Jones as building pieces. Jones has mysteriously gone somewhat under-the-radar in this deeply talented tackle class but he's absolutely a first-round talent.
Jones is an exciting prospect for teams with faith in their offensive line coach. The Houston prospect has every physical tool needed to be an excellent starter, but needs work with his hand placement and strike speed. Those are fixable skills that Miami can afford to endure in 2020 while they groom Tua for 2021.
The Dolphins would have ample picks to address the right tackle position and add long-term prospects at guard and center. Winning in the trenches is massively important for Brian Flores' regime.
No. 27: Seattle Seahawks - Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE
Some teams tend to be easier to predict as far as player profiles and positional value because of tenure, and Seattle's firmly in that boat. Pete Carroll and John Schneider go for the same type of player, and we'll have a great idea of their direction post-combine and free agency. We have to see how they handle Jadaveon Clowney's contract situation, but they'd be smart to keep the pass rusher and avoid creating a massive hole.
With that in mind, I'd like to see them go back to the edge pool since L.J. Collier isn't panning out yet. Penn State's Yetur Gross-Matos is a long, well-built edge who is a prototypical build despite not having great twitch or burst. He's all-around solid and this staff has done well to consistently develop their available talent.
Gross-Matos threads the needle of instant value and developmental upside. He should work his way into rotation quickly and establish himself as a starter early in his career.
No. 28: Baltimore Ravens - Kenneth Murray, LB
As impressive as Baltimore's 2019 leap with Lamar Jackson was, their stunning playoff loss to Tennessee showed how their defensive overhaul built some limitations against certain matchups. Loading up on secondary pieces left them vulnerable after losing C.J. Mosely and Za'Darius Smith, and the Titans pulverized them on the ground. Drafting Oklahoma's Kenneth Murray would provide a clear answer at middle linebacker for the next decade.
Murray is a rangy presence in coverage, but amassed huge tackle numbers in college thanks to his constantly improving run prowess. His junior season showed marked development with his hand usage and attack angles, helping the Sooners' defense become a respectable unit. He'd have a similar impact on the Ravens.
With Josh Bynes and Patrick Onwuasor gone, Murray would give an affordable solution to a major area of need. It's possible he's considered as early as Oakland's second first-round pick, and several other contenders could use his talent. This is a great value if the situation presents itself.
No. 29: Tennessee Titans - Ross Blacklock, DT
The surprising trade of Jerrell Casey opened up room in the first-round for an ideal replacement pick in Ross Blacklock. The TCU defensive lineman is a versatile piece who can play the 5-technique in base and kick inside on nickel downs. Blacklock was incredibly productive throughout his stint with Gary Patterson, tearing through the conference until an Achilles injury derailed his sophomore season. He projects as an early contributor even to a playoff contender.
His ability to penetrate upfield is especially notable for the Titans' needs. Casey had game-wrecking potential, and though Blacklock isn't quick as good with his hands, he's quick and has the instincts needed to be close.
His run defense and ability to handle double teams will be a work in progress. That's the case for many young linemen though, and unfair to be overvalued considering the current state of the league.
No. 30: Green Bay Packers - Tee Higgins, WR
Could a 4.6 40-yard dash runner make it into the first-round over speedier options? Tee Higgins should be able to because he's still fast for his 6'4", 216-pound frame. Some of that is due to his route-running and usage of his body.
Even if he's not a burner, the Packers may want to give Marquez Valdes-Scantling another year of development as a downfield threat. But someone has to be added to this playmaking group. The list of young talent that's flashed but unable to consistently produce isn't good enough yet.
Higgins is the type to walk in and produce right away. Davante Adams is terrific, and his presence allows Higgins to be isolated on vertical routes and jump ball opportunities. We already know Aaron Rodgers can give his receivers excellent chances to finish strong, and Higgins is the best in class at it.
No. 31: San Francisco 49ers - Ezra Cleveland, OT
Earlier I mentioned that San Francisco could justifiably go with a receiver, but sitting at No. 31, I don't love the Jalen Reagor or Laviska Shenault fits as much as I do this pick. The 49ers offensive line is terrific, but plugging in an elite athlete into the right guard position would continue their elite road-grading.
Combine winner Ezra Cleveland is custom-made for their zone-blocking scheme. The 6'6", 311-pounder dominated drills, and confirmed how athletic he looked on tape. He's a candidate to play anywhere on the line and develop into a Pro Bowl-caliber zone blocker.
Taking a bigger-bodied receiver like Bryan Edwards, Donovan Peoples-Jones or Van Jefferson would also make sense as they try to compliment their current corps. Putting a pure speedster into their roster doesn't make as much sense considering their approach.
No. 32: Kansas City Chiefs - Jeff Gladney, DB
The Chiefs had more luxury entering the free agency period than they do now, and their cornerback position is clearly the spot to address. Barring a reunion with Bashad Breeland, they lack a clear second corner on the roster. This board has fallen in their favor.
Getting an experienced corner with athleticism is a major win with the 32nd overall pick. TCU's Jeff Gladney checks those boxes and is able to move to the boundary or into the slot if need be. Though he's not the most physical player and his size is a limitation in the run game, he's smooth in coverage and has the ball skills to bank on.
Don't be surprised if the Chiefs add multiple corners in this impressive class. Losing Breeland and Kendall Fuller may have been smart financial decisions but they must keep the secondary a strength. We saw how important that was from 2018 to 2019.